8 June 2019
We were so pleased with the charter booking from the initial emails inquiring about dates available to the last minute questions and timely responses as we prepared to head to Scotland. Emma is professional, kind, and prompt in responding by email. We appreciate good customer service and yours is excellent. Since this was our second cruise with Skipper James and the Emma Jane, we knew what to expect about anchorages and visiting the islands. However, this cruise exceeded any expectations we had. We enjoyed returning to some islands we had previously visited and seeing new places. We continue to be overwhelmed by our visit to St. Kilda (thank you, Skipper James!) and seeing the many, many species and numbers of birds throughout the cruise that were not around in these numbers in September 2017. James knows much about all aspects of the Hebrides; if he doesn’t know an answer, he says that he doesn’t know. I like that. Will was knowledgeable about cetaceans, birds, plants, and extremely helpful to those of us who decided to take some of the walks that included narrow and muddy trails with steep inclines. He was available to offer a hand or arm to steady us as we hiked up and down the hills. Anchoring in protected areas overnight is an extraordinary experience—the quiet, the skies, the gentle rocking of the vessel. All ten of us on this charter live on bodies of water—bays, lakes, ocean. Anchoring in coves next to small villages or near an unpopulated island is special. The cruise was extra special. We were made to feel welcomed back and our friends from New Hampshire were thrilled with their experiences seeing the Hebrides and the wildlife, scenery, remoteness, and the comfort of the Emma Jane.
Angela & David Hiley
There are not enough words and adjectives to describe just how fantastic this cruise on Lucy Mary was. To fulfil an ambition of many years to actually visit St Kilda plus many other islands together with a superb crew and like minded great passengers was a dream come true. Captain James made sure we travelled comfortably and safely, making decisions every day after checking on tides and weather so we achieved every goal. His evening debriefing was informative and amusing together with details of the following days adventure. Chef Sammy made such imaginative and amazing meals every day, catering to different requests with a smile, she even shared a few recipes. Needless to say we've added a few pounds! Steward Poppy was a delight - always cheerful, always smiling and laughing and so attentive plus she kept our cabins immaculate every day. Finally, Indy, our wildlife guide. His knowledge, enthusiasm and irresistible personality enthralled us all. We learned so much and achieved his (and our) goals every day with his encouragement and drive. We are so very grateful to have been on this cruise and made memories which will last a lifetime. It won't be our last one!
Nancy and Don Harbron: 26 July 2025St Kilda and the isles of the Outer Hebrides